The Prohibition of Selling Fruits Before Ripening

This narration from Sahih Muslim 1534 i addresses two fundamental principles in Islamic commercial law: the prohibition of selling fruits before their condition becomes evident (istihlāq) and the prohibition of ribā in date exchanges.

Commentary on the First Prohibition

The phrase "until their good condition becomes evident" refers to the stage when fruits become safe from common blight and damage, typically indicated by ripening and changing color. This prevents gharar (uncertainty) in transactions, as selling unripe fruits involves unknown outcomes regarding their eventual quality and quantity.

Scholars interpret this as applying to fruits still on trees, where the buyer cannot ascertain what will ultimately reach maturity. The wisdom behind this prohibition protects both parties from potential disputes and ensures fair exchange based on known quantities and qualities.

Commentary on the Second Prohibition

The prohibition of "purchase of dates for dates" falls under the category of ribā al-fadl, where exchange of the same commodity must be equal in quantity and simultaneous in delivery if they are items subject to ribā. Dates, being a food item measurable by weight, require strict equivalence when traded against the same type.

This ruling extends to all six ribā commodities mentioned in prophetic traditions: gold, silver, wheat, barley, dates, and salt. When exchanging identical commodities from these categories, they must be equal in measure and hand-to-hand to avoid any element of usury.

Legal Implications and Contemporary Application

This hadith establishes that transactions must be free from excessive uncertainty (gharar) and usury (ribā). Modern applications include prohibiting forward contracts on agricultural produce where the outcome remains uncertain, and ensuring that currency exchanges and commodity trades adhere to principles of equivalence and immediate transfer when required.

The combined wisdom of these prohibitions ensures market stability, protects consumers from exploitation, and maintains divine boundaries in economic activities, fostering justice and transparency in all commercial dealings.